Query for sidecar experts - wheel tracking

Discussion in 'Classic Motorbikes' started by sean_q, Jun 11, 2011.

  1. sean_q

    sean_q Guest

    Further to my Dnepr project (to replace the motor),
    I have taken a tape measure to various Japanese motors
    including a KZ750 (too big), a Nighthawk (ditto) and
    an XS650 Special (maybe). Today I'll check out a SOHV CB750.

    However, I'm also reconsidering using a complete R75/5
    drive train from motor to rear hub. One issue is that
    the rear wheel, although still aligned straight forward,
    may end up not in the same plane as the front wheel.
    It might be offset by as much as 35mm to the left
    (ie, away from the sidecar).

    I suppose that an offset of this magnitude would be
    significant enough to adversely affect steering and handling
    on a two-wheeled motorcycle, but what about a hack rig?
    In effect the whole combo would be a trike (marginally).

    What concerns me is sidecar toe-in and bike lean. I can
    imagine that these alignment rules would change. Especially
    lean, where the adjustment would pivot the bike around an axis
    at a slight angle to the line of travel. At first thought
    this doesn't sound so good (steering instability?) (excess
    tire wear?) but would it really be a serious problem?

    Any opinions welcome.
    cc. rec.motorcycles, rec.motorcycles.tech

    TIA, SQ
     
    sean_q, Jun 11, 2011
    #1
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  2. I don't think that would be a problem..

    If you want to you could dish the front wheel to line up with the
    rear after you have done the mod..

    // Hans
     
    Hans Joergensen, Jun 14, 2011
    #2
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